Katana Jack! by Ivanovich Games is an arcade platformer, inspired by the classic Bomb Jack, of which all the art and music was created right on an iPad. Yep, you read it right!

Gameplay

Katana Jack! is an arcade platformer in which the goal is to slice all the lanterns in a level while avoiding enemies. In order to get three stars on each level, you have to cut the lanterns in the specific order in which they are lit, failing to do this will just give you fewer than three stars.

Controls in the game are simple as using a joystick: the left bottom of the screen controls directions, and tap anywhere on the right side of the screen to jump. There is an easy method in which the jump button also serves as a jetpack, or the harder method where you have to keep tapping the button to propel yourself upwards.

The game features 90 levels which will keep you occupied for quite some time. The levels get rougher as you proceed, but also sushi will appear occasionally, and when you eat sushi you will make your enemies vulnerable, PAC-man style. The game comes with 2 game modes, History and Arcade, and has iCould integration along Game Center support with 30 Achievements and leaderboards.

Graphics & Sound

The graphics in Katana Jack! are probably what stand out the most in this game. As the first game completely drawn on an iPad, the graphics are gorgeous. From the shiny joystick and buttons right down to the platforms and sprouts and menus, everything looks great.

The music, also done on an iPad, sounds very good, and features 4 original songs that fit with the games style very well. Sound effects are also well done. iPod music is supported.

Conclusion

For fans of retro arcade games like Bomb Jack, Katana Jack! is a no brained for a buck. Plenty of content, awesome graphics, great sound, it's hard to pass up!

Ratings (scale of 1 to 5):

Graphics: -5- Beautiful graphics all painted on the iPad look awesomeSound: -4- Great relaxing music and perfect sound effects. iPod music supported. Controls: -4.5- Simple joystick and jump control scheme works fine.Gameplay: -5- Classic retro arcade platforming with great art and music.

Playing Hints and Tips:

Be sure to take advantage of the sushi powerup, it doesn't last that long!